This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Yamba.
Yamba is a small town situated on the coast of northern New South Wales, approximately six hundred seventy kilometres north of Sydney. The town’s beautiful beaches, great climate, and relaxed lifestyle make it the perfect spot for backpackers to stay at a hostel and relax for a few days -- or even weeks. There are more than ten beaches close to Yamba, and popular things to do while staying there include swimming, sun-baking, beachcombing, diving, kayaking, surfing, and whale-watching.
For those who love nature, be sure to visit some of the beautiful national parks and nature reserves that are an easy drive from Yamba. Located south of the town, Yuraygir National Park possesses the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in New South Wales, dramatic landscape features, several walking trails, and plenty of wildlife. Bundjalung National Park, to the north of Yamba, is also situated on the beach and has quite a few good walks as well as a couple of paddle routes, for those who’d prefer to explore by canoe.
Although the beach is Yamba’s main drawcard for visitors, you won't have to sit around at the hostel as there are also many other things to do -- both in town and further afield. For backpackers who need some extra rest and recuperation after their travels, it’s possible to take yoga classes in town, or to visit the local Wellbeing Centre where you can get nurtured with meditation, massage, reflexology, and other kinds of relaxing natural therapies.
If shopping is more your thing, the local markets, held on the fourth Sunday of each month at Ford Park on the Clarence River foreshore, are a good place to purchase local produce, handicrafts and gifts. There’s also a Farmers Market held every Wednesday at the Whiting Beach Car Park, from 7 until 11 a.m. If you’re not in town when these are being held, ask your Yamba hostel manager about any other local markets, as there are plenty of them.
Located just off the Pacific Highway (the main route between Sydney and Brisbane), Yamba is very easy to get to, whether you’re traveling in your own vehicle or using public transport.
Written by local enthusiast for Yamba hostels
Carsani